US House votes 427-1 to release Epstein files

The US House of Representatives has taken a significant step by overwhelmingly passing a bipartisan bill to compel the Justice Department to release all case files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The measure passed with a vote of 427-1, with only GOP Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana voting against it.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that the Senate could approve the House-passed bill as soon as late on Tuesday (November 18).

President Donald Trump has also stated that he will sign the bill if Congress passes it, marking a notable reversal from his previous position.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he plans to offer the House-passed bill for unanimous consent Tuesday, US media reported.

He urged senators to seize the opportunity to pass the bill immediately so it can be sent to the president’s desk for signature.

“We have an opportunity to get this bill done today and have it, have it on the president’s desk to be signed into law tonight. We should seize that opportunity,” Schumer said on the Senate floor.

He further criticised Republican leaders, saying: “Americans are fed up with Donald Trump’s lies. They are fed up with the cover ups, and they are fed up with Republican leaders who keep siding with Donald Trump instead of siding with the American people who demand transparency when it comes to Jeffrey Epstein.”

Schumer warned that Trump’s efforts to selectively release only parts of the files would be transparent to the public and would exacerbate distrust in the president.

“If the president tries to manipulate his way into releasing just some of the Epstein files while deliberately hiding others, the public will see right through it and their frustration, their distrust in Donald Trump will grow even worse,” Schumer said.

Thune pointed out that the bill likely would not be amended by the Senate, despite attempts from House Speaker Mike Johnson to push for changes.

“I think, when a bill comes out of the House 427 to 1, and the President has said he’s going to sign it, I’m not sure that amending it is, is in the cards,” Thune told reporters.

The House bill’s passage reflects strong bipartisan support for transparency and justice related to Epstein’s case and a push to overcome political resistance.

With Senate consideration imminent and presidential backing forthcoming, the bill looks set to become law soon, ensuring the full release of government files surrounding Epstein’s criminal activities.